Florida Reacts to Justice Kennedy Retirement

The surprise announcement that United States Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy will retire at the end of July, gives President Trump an opportunity to select his second pick to the nation’s highest court. Kennedy, considered a moderate, will most certainly be replaced by a more conservative jurist – exciting Republicans while leaving Democrats in a state of shock.

Here’s some reaction from Florida politicians:

Governor Rick Scott said, “I am glad a vote for the next Supreme Court Justice will happen this fall. We cannot delay having a solid justice and Senate Democrats should not try to play politics or obstruct this process. It’s imperative the next justice will uphold our Constitution and fairly and accurately interpret our laws.”

I admire Justice Kennedy’s frequent calls for greater civility in our discourse. Now I look forward to a fair & thorough confirmation process THIS FALL of an individual who will respect the principles of original intent & judicial restraint #SCOTUS

Justice Kennedy was a balanced, consensus candidate nominated by President Reagan. I expect President Trump to do the same. I believe the American people should be given a chance to express their views in the upcoming election, before the Senate exercises its constitutional duty.

The retirement of Justice Anthony Kennedy gives President Trump the opportunity to appoint another excellent jurist — and to solidify the constitutionalist wing of the Court for a long time. Trump has been terrific in his judicial picks and this will be biggest nomination yet!